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Guys thanks again for the great info. I actually applied to start volunteering just myself for now and the children's hospital, just because I have time and want my foot in the door, just in case Fletcher does turn out to do this kind of work. I know he's young now, so its really too early to tell, I have him around as many kids, strangers, dogs, sounds and I do need a puppy class with a club, but the info you all provided was great now I feel like I know what to expect and get to work. Fun work but work. Even if Fletcher and I never actually get to do this together, we will be bonded better from the experience. Just wanted to say thanks again

Good for you Melissa! I think you will be amazed at how much of a blessing this volunteer work will be. Since you have a heart for children anyway....perhaps this is exactly the direction you were to be taking. Who knows?..this could open a door to more than you ever dreamed of.
Since Fletcher has about 6 more months before he would meet most organizations requirements..it will give you plenty of time to get used to what the routine would be.

Good for you Melissa! I think you will be amazed at how much of a blessing this volunteer work will be. Since you have a heart for children anyway....perhaps this is exactly the direction you were to be taking. Who knows?..this could open a door to more than you ever dreamed of.
Since Fletcher has about 6 more months before he would meet most organizations requirements..it will give you plenty of time to get used to what the routine would be.

My dog and I have been visiting a local nursing home since February. It's a lot of fun. He is registered with therapy dogs international. I can only suggest you continue to get your dog out and around people and things. I did not additional special preparation for that test. I actually took him for his CGC test, and they had therapy testing at the same time. He failed the CGC the first time because of the supervised separation. So, when we went the second time, and they had the therapy testing. I figured I'd sign him up and see what he failed and needed work on. He passed though. His breeder had thought about keeping him and doing therapy with him, so she started prepping him early on. I just never got around to taking him for the testing until he was 3. Just keep taking your dog out and socializing him. Take him everywhere you can get him in.